Coriaceus
/kor-ee-AH-see-us/🏷️ Taxonomy●● Intermediate
Also known as: coriacea, coriaceum
A texture epithet describing leaves, petals, or other organs that are thick, stiff, and tough — with the leathery feel of tanned hide. Leathery leaves are typically evergreen, drought-tolerant, and able to withstand physical damage. Appears as coriaceus (masculine), coriacea (feminine), or coriaceum (neuter).
Etymology
From Latin coriaceus, meaning "of leather" or "leathery," from corium (hide, leather, skin).
Example
“Bergenia cordifolia and Heuchera 'Coriacea' selections have leaves of such substantial, leathery thickness they feel and sound like stiff card when handled — a quality the epithet captures precisely.”